Japan to Raise Visa Fees and Departure Tax in 2026 Amid Record Tourism Surge

Japan, a top global travel destination, welcomed over 31.6 million visitors from January to September 2025, driven by its rich cultural heritage, modern cities, and natural beauty. To manage this unprecedented tourism boom and fund critical infrastructure, security enhancements, and domestic initiatives like free high school tuition, the Japanese government has announced significant adjustments to visa fees and the international departure tax, effective in 2026. These changes will primarily impact foreign travelers, with measures to offset costs for Japanese nationals.

Visa Fee Increases: Aligning with Global Standards

For the first time since 1978, Japan will raise its visa fees to reflect inflation and align with rates charged by other G7 and OECD nations. The current fee structure, notably lower than international counterparts, has prompted this adjustment to support administrative and infrastructural demands.

Current Fees: A single-entry visa costs ¥3,000 (approximately €19 or US$20), and a multiple-entry visa is ¥6,000 (about €38).
Proposed Changes: While exact figures are yet to be finalized, fees are expected to rise significantly. For context, comparable visas cost US$185 (≈ ¥28,000) in the United States, £127 (≈ ¥27,000) in the United Kingdom, and €90 (≈ ¥15,000) for Schengen countries like France or Germany.
Implementation: The new rates will take effect in 2026.

This adjustment aims to balance Japan’s fiscal strategy, prioritizing tourist contributions over increased domestic taxation. Travelers requiring visas, particularly from countries without visa-exemption agreements, should anticipate higher costs when planning trips.

Departure Tax Hike to Support Tourism Infrastructure

Introduced in 2019, Japan’s international departure tax—currently ¥1,000 (around €5.50 or US$7) per person—is levied on all individuals leaving the country, including citizens and tourists, and is typically embedded in airline ticket prices. In 2026, this tax will increase to address the strain of overtourism and fund upgrades to airports, public transport, and tourist facilities.

Proposed Increase: The exact amount is pending, but estimates suggest a rise to ¥2,000–¥3,000, aligning closer to benchmarks like the U.S. departure fee (≈ ¥3,300).
Revenue Goals: Combined with visa fee hikes, the government projects up to ¥300 billion annually to support sustainable tourism and infrastructure.
Offset for Residents: To ease the impact on Japanese citizens, the government is exploring reductions in passport application and renewal fees.
Timeline: The new tax rate will apply starting in 2026.

These funds will help alleviate pressures in popular destinations like Kyoto, Osaka, and Tokyo, where overtourism has strained local resources.

Introduction of JESTA Pre-Screening System

Looking beyond 2026, Japan will launch the Japan Electronic System for Travel Authorization (JESTA) in 2028, targeting travelers from visa-exempt countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, and EU nations. Modeled after systems like the U.S. ESTA and Europe’s ETIAS, JESTA will require online pre-registration to enhance border security and manage visitor flows.

Process: Travelers must submit passport details and trip information for pre-screening before arrival.
Estimated Fee: Approximately ¥6,000 (around €36 or US$40).
Purpose: To streamline entry processes and bolster security amid rising visitor numbers.

This system will add a new step for visa-exempt travelers, who currently enjoy 90-day stays without pre-authorization, and underscores Japan’s proactive approach to managing its tourism surge.

Implications for Travelers

The fee increases will likely affect travelers from major markets like the United States and China, who represent significant shares of Japan’s inbound tourism. Families, frequent visitors, or those requiring multiple-entry visas may face notably higher costs. Additionally, local governments in tourism hotspots like Kyoto and Osaka are considering further accommodation taxes to address overtourism, potentially compounding expenses.

Travelers planning visits in 2026 or later should:

Budget Accordingly: Account for higher visa and departure tax costs, especially for group travel.
Monitor Updates: Check the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs or local embassy websites for finalized fee details and JESTA requirements.
Plan Ahead: Book early to anticipate changes and consult travel advisors for tailored guidance.

Japan’s Commitment to Sustainable Tourism

While these changes may raise travel costs, they reflect Japan’s dedication to sustainable tourism and enhanced visitor experiences. Investments in infrastructure, security, and cultural preservation aim to maintain the country’s appeal as a premier destination.